Classic shoot em up video games

Shoot em ups, also known as “shmups,” are a classic genre of video games that have been popular for decades. These games typically involve controlling a character or vehicle as they navigate through levels and shoot enemies. Here are some of the most popular shoot em up video games of all time.

1. Space Invaders

Space Invaders is a classic arcade game that was released in 1978. In this game, players control a spaceship at the bottom of the screen and must shoot waves of alien invaders as they descend towards the bottom of the screen. The game is simple but addictive, and it’s often credited with popularizing the shoot em up genre.

2. Galaga

Galaga is another classic arcade shoot em up game that was released in 1981. In this game, players control a spaceship that must shoot down waves of enemy ships. One of the unique features of Galaga is the ability to capture and control enemy ships, which adds an extra layer of strategy to the gameplay.

3. R-Type

R-Type is a side-scrolling shoot em up game that was released in 1987. In this game, players control a futuristic spacecraft as they battle through levels filled with enemy ships and obstacles. R-Type is known for its challenging gameplay and its unique “force” mechanic, which allows players to attach a powerful weapon to the front or back of their ship.

4. Gradius

Gradius is a shoot em up game that was released in 1985. In this game, players control a spaceship called the Vic Viper as they battle through levels filled with enemies and obstacles. One of the unique features of Gradius is the ability to upgrade the Vic Viper’s weapons and power-ups by collecting capsules that are dropped by certain enemies.

5. Ikaruga

Ikaruga is a shoot em up game that was released in 2001. In this game, players control a ship that can switch between two polarities – black and white – in order to absorb enemy fire of the same polarity and deal extra damage to enemies of the opposite polarity. Ikaruga is known for its challenging gameplay and its unique polarity mechanic.

6. Raiden

Raiden is a classic shoot em up game that was released in 1990. In this game, players control a futuristic fighter jet as they battle through levels filled with enemy ships and obstacles. Raiden is known for its challenging gameplay and its unique power-up system, which allows players to upgrade their weapons and abilities.

Conclusion

Shoot em up games have been a beloved genre of video games for decades, and these popular titles have helped to shape the genre into what it is today. Whether you’re a fan of classic arcade games or modern side-scrolling shooters, there’s no shortage of great shoot em up games to enjoy.